Cook

Grow and Thrive Limited; Bedford; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 21,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

30 hours per week

38 weeks per year

£13.50 per hour

Job summary

Aspens Services is seeking a Cook to join our school catering team in Bedford. You will bring our menus to life, using fresh ingredients to create healthy, kid-friendly meals that are delicious and appealing for students and staff.

We value someone with knowledge of education catering, a Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate, and a proactive mindset. You must hold a full UK driving licence and enjoy working in a team that cares about quality and safety.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of education catering.
• Food Hygiene Level 2 certificate (training available).
• Full UK driving licence.
• Self-motivated and keen to learn and motivate others.

Responsibilities

• Creative Menu Execution: prepare provided menus with craft skills.
• Safety Champion: ensure compliance with hygiene and safety standards.
• Hospitality Production: handle client requests and events with quality service.
• Building Connections: develop relationships with school clients and students.
• Service with a Smile: provide friendly, professional customer service.

Skills

Education catering

Food safety

Health & safety

Driving licence

Self-motivated

Job description

The following content displays a map of the jobs location - Bedford

Aspens Services is a market-leading contract caterer specialising in school food. We don't just serve meals—we create fantastic food experiences that fuel young minds! By blending deep knowledge of the education sector with the latest high-street food trends, we encourage creativity and excitement in every kitchen. Our commitment to quality care for both clients and children has fueled rapid growth, and we are looking for passionate people like you to join our journey.

The role

As a Cook in one of our schools, you will be bringing our menus to life - creating healthy, nutritious and delicious food that’s fun for students and staff alike. We’re looking for someone with the originality and drive to focus on the highest quality food and service, making our school meals the absolute best in the area.

Your responsibilities will include

• Creative Menu Execution: Preparing our provided menus using your excellent craft skills.


• Safety Champion: Ensuring strict compliance with Food Hygiene, Allergen, and Health & Safety standards.


• Hospitality Production: Executing high-quality hospitality requests for clients and special events.


• Building Connections: Developing strong relationships with both ourschool clients and the students you serve.


• Service with a Smile: Providing a friendly and polite customer service experience for everyone.

About you

We need someone who shares our deep passion for delivering exceptional food and service to our schools, along with the following skills and experience:

• Some knowledge of education catering, and proven experience working with fresh ingredients and excellent craft skills.


• Excellent working knowledge of health and safety practices and a Food Hygiene Level 2 Certificate (though we offer further training!)


• A full UK driving licence


• You’re a self-motivated person who uses your initiative, has a deep desire to learn and loves motivating others.

Why Join the Aspens Family?

Great Work-Life Balance

You’ll work Monday to Friday during school term time - that means no late nights, no weekends and no working at Christmas!

• 30 hours per week


• 38 weeks per year - what will you do with all that time off?


• £13.50 per hour

Career Growth and Development

Join a fast-growing, ambitious company. We have no ceiling in terms of where you can take your career in catering.

Benefit from a dedicated Learning & Development team offering apprenticeship and training courses to help you constantly develop your skills.

Please note: All staff must share our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children/young people. The company will seek an enhanced DBS disclosure.